Top 10 Best Banks for Small Businesses in California (2025)

Running a business in California means you’ve got options—and not just for tacos and tech. Whether you’re in San Francisco, Los Angeles, or anywhere in between, choosing the right bank can help your business grow faster and keep more money in your pocket.

See How California Compares Nationwide

Curious how California stacks up against other states?
Explore our full state-by-state business bank rankings to see the best options for small businesses across the U.S.

Compare with Neighboring States

If you do business across state lines or want to see how your options measure up, check out our guides for nearby states:

• Oregon

• Nevada

• Arizona

Thinking About Switching Banks?

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Follow our step-by-step guide to switching business bank accounts and make your move with confidence.

Why More California SMBs Are Choosing Holdings

• Zero fees, no minimums: Keep more of your hard-earned cash.

• High APY (up to 3.0%): Make your money work as hard as you do.

• Integrated accounting & bookkeeping: Spend less time on admin, more time on growth.

• $3M FDIC insurance: Sleep easy knowing your funds are protected.

See all features and open your Holdings account today.

The 10 Best Banks for Small Businesses in California

Holdings (Best for Digital-First Banking)

Holdings stands out as the top choice for small businesses seeking modern banking solutions. Its digital-first approach includes multi-account management for budgeting and saving, tiered APY rates up to 3%, and seamless integrations with platforms like QuickBooks and Plaid. With $0 account fees, no minimum balances, free ACH transfers, and access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs nationwide, Holdings delivers unmatched value for California entrepreneurs.

Pros:

• $0 account fees and no minimum balance requirements

• High APY tiers (up to 3%) for growing deposits

• Free ACH transfers and domestic wires

• Integration with accounting platforms like QuickBooks

• Access to Allpoint ATMs without fees

Cons:

• No physical branches

• Limited international wire capabilities

Verdict: Holdings is ideal for tech-savvy businesses looking for cost-effective banking with advanced digital tools.

Chase Bank (Best for Nationwide Coverage)

Chase is a leading choice for small businesses needing extensive branch access across California. With its Business Complete Banking account offering unlimited electronic deposits and access to over 4,700 branches nationwide, Chase combines convenience with robust financial services.

Pros:

• Extensive branch network across California

• Unlimited electronic deposits

• Competitive business credit card options

• Access to specialized business loans

Cons:

• Monthly fees unless balance requirements are met

• Limited APY on savings accounts

Verdict: Chase is perfect for businesses prioritizing physical branch access and nationwide coverage.

Bank of America (Best for Cash Management)

Bank of America excels in cash management solutions tailored to small businesses. Its Business Advantage Fundamentals account offers tools like Cash Flow Monitor and integration with Zelle for payments.

Pros:

• Strong cash management tools

• Mobile app with advanced features

• Access to business credit lines

• Extensive ATM network

Cons:

• Monthly fees unless waived by meeting criteria

• Limited APY on savings accounts

Verdict: Bank of America is ideal for businesses focused on efficient cash flow management.

Wells Fargo (Best for Lending Options)

Wells Fargo provides comprehensive lending solutions for small businesses in California. Its Business Choice Checking account pairs well with its extensive loan offerings.

Pros:

• Diverse loan options including SBA loans

• Large branch network across California

• Dedicated business banking advisors

• Easy-to-use mobile app

Cons:

• Monthly maintenance fees unless waived

• Limited fee-free transactions

Verdict: Wells Fargo is best suited for businesses needing accessible lending options.

Silicon Valley Bank (Best for Tech Startups)

Silicon Valley Bank specializes in serving tech startups and innovation-driven companies. It offers tailored solutions like venture capital financing and startup-friendly accounts.

Pros:

• Expertise in tech-focused industries

• Venture capital financing options

• Dedicated startup programs

• Strong connections within Silicon Valley

Cons:

• Limited appeal outside tech sectors

• Higher fees compared to traditional banks

Verdict: Silicon Valley Bank is a go-to choice for startups seeking industry-specific support.

Union Bank (Best Regional Option)

Union Bank provides personalized services through its regional focus in California. Its Business Essentials Checking account caters to local entrepreneurs with competitive features.

Pros:

• Strong regional presence in California

• Personalized customer service

• Competitive loan rates

• Fee waivers available

Cons:

• Smaller branch network compared to national banks

• Limited digital banking features

Verdict: Union Bank is ideal for small businesses valuing local expertise.

First Republic Bank (Best for Premium Services)

First Republic Bank offers premium banking services tailored to high-net-worth individuals and businesses. Its customized approach includes personalized advisors and flexible financing options.

Pros:

• Exceptional customer service

• Flexible financing solutions

• High-end banking experience

• Competitive interest rates on loans

Cons:

• Higher minimum deposit requirements

• Limited appeal for smaller businesses

Verdict: First Republic Bank is perfect for businesses seeking premium services.

U.S. Bank (Best for Affordability)

U.S. Bank’s Silver Business Checking Package offers affordable banking with no monthly maintenance fees under specific conditions.

Pros:

• No monthly maintenance fees (conditions apply)

• Strong mobile app functionality

• Access to business credit cards

• Extensive ATM network

Cons:

• Limited free transactions per month

• Lower APY rates on savings accounts

Verdict: U.S. Bank is great for budget-conscious small businesses.

Farmers & Merchants Bank (Best Community Bank)

Farmers & Merchants Bank emphasizes community-focused banking with personalized services tailored to local businesses.

Pros:

• Strong community presence in Southern California

• Personalized customer service

• Competitive loan rates

• Local decision-making process

Cons:

• Limited digital tools compared to larger banks

• Smaller branch network

Verdict: Farmers & Merchants Bank is ideal for small businesses seeking community-oriented support.

Citibank (Best for Global Reach)

Citibank offers global banking solutions suited to import/export businesses or those with international operations.

Pros:

• Extensive global reach

• Competitive foreign exchange services

• Robust online banking platform

• Access to international credit lines

Cons:

• Higher fees compared to regional banks

• Limited focus on smaller local businesses

Verdict: Citibank is an excellent choice for globally-oriented small businesses.

Comparison Table of Business Banking Options in California

Conclusion: Why Holdings Is the Best Choice

California’s diverse business landscape demands flexible and innovative banking solutions—and Holdings delivers just that. With zero fees, no minimum balances, tiered APY rates up to 3%, seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Plaid, and fee-free ATM access nationwide, Holdings empowers small business owners to focus on growth without worrying about unnecessary costs or limitations.

Open your Holdings account today at GetHoldings.com—where your business’s success starts!